The Grand Celestial Hotel was alive with opulence—gold chandeliers glistened like captured stars, and the marble floors reflected the elegant movements of the elite. It was a night of celebration, but for Ochieng, it was nothing more than another stage in the game of power.
Dressed in a midnight-black tailored suit, he exuded authority. He walked through the gala, his every step measured, his presence commanding. Whispers followed him—fear, admiration, envy.
At the far end of the ballroom, Linet stood in a flowing sapphire dress, her beauty captivating the eyes of many. She raised a glass of Merlot in his direction, her smirk telling him she knew he hated these events.
"Tolerate it, Ochieng," she murmured as he reached her. "This is where kings and queens are made."
He accepted a drink from a passing waiter but merely held it. "This is where pawns pretend to be kings."
Before she could respond, a familiar voice called out.
"Ah, the great Ochieng. Still as cold as ever."
Ochieng turned, and his gaze met Adrian Zhang, heir to the Zhang financial empire. A snake in a silk suit.
"Adrian." Ochieng's voice was neutral. "I didn't expect to see you here."
Adrian chuckled, swirling his wine. "Oh, but I wouldn't miss this. I hear there's someone special attending tonight."
Linet raised a brow. "Who?"
Before Adrian could answer, the ballroom doors opened—and the entire room turned to look.
A woman entered, her presence sending a ripple through the crowd. Dressed in a crimson gown, she moved with effortless grace, her heels clicking against the marble like the ticking of a countdown.
Ochieng's grip tightened around his glass.
It was Sofia Wang.
The woman who had betrayed him.
And she was smiling—as if she had never shattered his world.